Types of teeth whitening | Teeth whitening in the USA | Whitening gel

Types of teeth whitening

The types of the teeth whitening in the USA used in dentistry are divided into two categories: clinic and home. The starting point on the way to a shining smile is to understand the differences in different techniques, to assess their effectiveness and safety.

In terms of impact on teeth, a distinction is made between chemical and mechanical whitening. In the first variant, colored organic compounds on enamels (pigments) are removed with chemically active substances. Mechanical whitening allows teeth to be brightened by removing plaque and tartar.

 

Ways to whiten teeth

The most common mechanical types of tooth whitening are:

  • The procedure removes stones and plaque formed due to long-term smoking, coffee consumption, and other intensely colored products.
  • The Air Flow method, in which enamel is cleaned by a sandblasting machine.

Both types are not literally whitening, because no direct action is taken on the enamel fabric. Professional dentists refer to these procedures as tooth lightening. Mechanical stone and plaque removal produces a double effect: a noticeable improvement in aesthetics without penetrating the enamel structure and the removal of gingival traumatic factors.

Ultrasonic and sandblasting whitening of teeth is performed in a dental clinic. The combination of methods (first stone removal, then plaque) is more effective. To prevent the sensitivity of teeth from becoming more sensitive, fluoride-containing agents are used.

At home, mechanical whitening of teeth is done with the help of:

  • Ultrasonic toothbrushes. They operate in a similar way to an ultrasonic whitening device.
  • Whitening pastes with an abrasive active ingredient. When choosing products it is worth consulting with a doctor because the uncontrolled use of abrasive pastes almost always leads to increased sensitivity, and sometimes leads to the destruction of enamel.

Chemical methods of teeth whitening are carried out in the clinic or at home, independently, under the supervision, and after consultation with a doctor.

 

Cabinet Types of Chemical Whitening

Professional chemical whitening is based on the use of special compounds and activators of their action by heat, ultraviolet or laser radiation. The activation of these sources of whitening tooth gels produces active oxygen, which oxidizes the pigment fragments on the enamel.

The main advantage of professional whitening - the ability to brighten teeth to 12 tones, (depending on the selected method) in one visit to the clinic. Medical supervision, observance of technologies, application of fluorine-containing, and remineralizing compositions after procedures minimize the traumatic influence on enamel structure.

The best options for tooth whitening using chemical reagents and activators in a dental clinic:

  • Photo whitening (Zoom), in which the active composition is activated by ultraviolet rays. During the procedure, a whitening gel based on hydrogen peroxide is applied to the tooth enamel in a significant concentration. Under the influence of UV rays, active oxygen is released from the gel, interacting with enamel pigments.
  • Laser whitening in which a laser beam acts on the whitening compound. Radiation accelerates the flow of chemical reactions, so the exposure time, therefore, the exposure of the gel to enamel is minimal.

Homemade types of chemical whitening differ from the cabinet with a weaker concentration of active substances and lower efficiency. The most popular methods:

  • Wearing mouthpieces that are individually manufactured from tooth casts in a dental laboratory and filled with the active substance. It penetrates into enamel pores and discolors the pigments.
  • Use of bleaching pencils with low hydrogen peroxide content. They should be applied very carefully, preventing the contents from getting onto the gums.
  • Whitening strips that are applied to the teeth for a specific period of time.

Home chemical procedures to restore the color of enamel does not give immediate effect, are carried out within 2-3 weeks, require a consultation with a dentist.

There are also folk methods of teeth whitening, but compared to medical developments, they are ineffective and in some cases unsafe. Following the advice to use baking soda, charcoal, and other means for whitening the enamel can lead to increased sensitivity and destruction of the structure.

The best way to whiten teeth to meet individual needs can only be determined by an experienced dentist, so the most reasonable solution is to make an appointment for a consultation.

Buy whitening gel in our online shop and read article about "Safe tooth whitening"


Explore more